Texas State freshman John Mendoza Jr killed in police shooting; deputy fired

Article excerpt

Texas State University freshman John Mendoza Jr. was killed in a police-involved shooting, and the deputy who fired the fatal shot has been terminated. The incident marks another fatal encounter between law enforcement and a college student, raising questions about police protocols and use of force. Authorities have not yet released full details about what preceded the shooting or the circumstances that led the deputy to open fire. The firing of the officer suggests investigators determined the shooting was not justified under department policy, though criminal charges have not been announced. The case adds to ongoing national scrutiny of police shootings involving young people.